Daylighting Controls in the Workplace

Daylighting controls minimize energy use by using sensors to automatically adjust artificial lighting based on the time of day. During mornings and afternoons, interior lighting will be used minimally and only to supplement the natural lighting that comes in through windows. As the day progresses to the evening, interior fixtures will become brighter as the main lighting source. The key is avoiding both overly dark conditions and wasteful over-lighting.

There are two main daylight sensor strategies:

• Open-loop sensors measure only natural daylight, typically mounted near windows or skylights.
• Closed-loop sensors capture both daylight and artificial light in a space, ensuring accurate adjustments across entire zones.

Modern systems often use wireless closed-loop sensors embedded within fixtures. This networked approach allows lights to dim gradually and uniformly, avoiding the “flicker effect” that distracts occupants.

Daylight Dimming Strategies

Daylight dimming strategies vary depending on the space and its requirements. Three common approaches include:

• Switching controls: Lights turn fully on or off based on a threshold of available daylight.
• Stepped controls: Lighting is reduced in increments, such as dimming from 100% to 70% when daylight increases.
• Continuous dimming: Fixtures adjust smoothly across the full range, providing the most seamless occupant experience.

For commercial spaces like offices, manufacturing areas, or classrooms, continuous dimming is typically preferred. This ensures task lighting levels remain consistent while still maximizing the use of natural light.

Daylight Savings Adjustments

Daylight savings time is a prime example of the importance of flexible lighting control. Throughout the year, the amount of daylight fluctuates significantly, which affects the mood and productivity of employees. Without a seamless transition from bright mornings to dark evenings, workspaces may see excessive glare, dark workplaces, and more energy waste.

Daylight savings lighting controls help overcome this by:

• Recalibrating schedules and dimming levels automatically
• Accounting for shorter winter days or longer summer evenings
• Integrating with building management systems for seasonal optimization

Adapting the daylight strategy helps ensure that the space is well lit throughout the whole year and minimizes excess energy usage.

Tips for Minimizing Glare

There are numerous benefits to natural lighting; however, too much can be obstructive, leading to glare on computer screens, eye strain, and reduced productivity. Daylighting controls can be paired with other tools to help manage the amount of lighting coming in.

• Automated blinds or shades that respond to sensor input
• Light shelves to reflect daylight deeper into a space
• Spectrally selective glazing that reduces solar heat gain without blocking visible light

Implementing other technologies to aid daylight harvesting sensors will help minimize the glare throughout workspaces.

Benefits of Integrated Daylighting Systems

When well implemented, daylighting controls provide both immediate and long-term benefits:

• Energy efficiency: Reduced reliance on artificial lighting lowers utility costs and carbon footprint.
• Improved occupant comfort: Natural light supports circadian rhythms, enhances mood, and boosts productivity.
• Maintenance savings: Dimming extends the life of LED drivers and fixtures, reducing replacement frequency.
• Design flexibility: Buildings with daylighting controls can incorporate larger windows or skylights while maintaining visual comfort.

Tips for Smooth Seasonal Transitions

To ensure daylighting systems perform reliably through daylight savings and seasonal changes, facility teams should:

1. Recommission sensors annually to ensure accuracy as daylight patterns shift.
2. Integrate with automated shading systems to reduce glare and maximize usable daylight.
3. Use continuous dimming drivers for smooth transitions that avoid visual distractions.
4. Pair with occupancy sensors so lights only operate when needed, further boosting efficiency.
5. Leverage utility incentives for daylight harvesting controls, which can offset upfront investment costs.

Conclusion

Advanced lighting controls, such as daylighting, are helpful tools that can be used to increase comfort, productivity, and reduce excess energy use. By shifting lighting needs with the seasons, businesses can reduce energy usage and create a more comfortable work environment for employees.

Action Services Group offers lighting controls solutions that can be customized to suit your business’s goals. To learn more, call 610-558-9773, email [email protected], or schedule a consultation that fits your schedule.